| 12/30/2003 1:31:43 PM

UTICA, NY- The Tigers men's soccer team defeated Utica this afternoon in a game highlighted by offensive firepower and strong defensive play. This game marks the beginning of Empire 8 Conference play for both teams.

The Tigers' first marker came from George Chambers (Webster, NY/Erasmus Hall) and was assisted by Jorge Ciurlizza (McLean, VA/Gonzaga) in the 27th minute of the first half. The second goal for RIT came six minutes later off the foot of Trae Lower (Biglerville, PA/Biglerville) with help from Chris Mbaakanyi (Francistown, Botswana/McConnell). The Tigers' final goal came at 87:30 from Mbaakanyi; Ciurlizza was credited with the assist. Rochester native Nate Andrews (Greece Arcadia) recorded three saves, stopping all of the shots he faced.

RIT improves to 5-3-0 (1-0-0) and will face Buffalo State on Wednesday at 4 pm on RIT Field.